April Updates from Alics

There’s a fresh energy in the air, and our programs are buzzing with activity! From new faces and exciting updates to tasty treats and tech improvements, April is shaping up to be full of growth, fun, and connection. Take a peek at what’s been happening across the agency this month!

Exciting Schedule Update

We’re thrilled to announce that starting April 13, Skill Building hours will change to 8:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. across all locations. This adjustment gives us more time and flexibility for activities and—best of all—more fun for our consumers!

Tech Talk with James Vierk

James has been working diligently to set up and distribute laptops for all staff—thank you, James, for your dedication and tech know-how! Just a friendly reminder to keep your laptop safe and secure at all times.

Fleet & Maintenance Update

Shawn Hill is settling in nicely as our Manager of Fleet and Maintenance. He’s been working to standardize van logs and vehicle protocols across the agency, while also scouting for new to us vans to modernize our fleet. Great work, Shawn!

Marketing News

Megan Garcia is stepping into the newly created role of Social Media and Marketing Coordinator! As a Business Developer, she’s helped strengthen Arkay’s social media presence. In this new position, she’ll continue boosting our brand and sharing our story in creative, engaging ways. We’ll be meeting this week to kick off a marketing strategy—exciting things ahead!

Staff Moves

Veronica Lee has transitioned from Skill Building to Business Services! In her new role, she’ll provide one-on-one coaching to our Supported Employment consumers. Congratulations, Veronica!

Hoppin’ by for a Good Time!

The Easter Bunny made a surprise visit to our Crossings location, spreading springtime cheer! Staff and consumers had a blast posing for photos and enjoying the fun. Big thanks to Job Coach Jelano Bell for donning the costume and making the day unforgettable!

New to Arkay

Please join us in welcoming Kierra Jones, our new Crossings Program Manager! Kierra brings a wealth of experience as a Mental Health Clinician, School Social Worker, and Program Coordinator with the Autism Alliance of Michigan. She’ll officially start on April 13—welcome aboard, Kierra!

We’re also excited to welcome Dennesa Girvin and Carissma Hurn, who joined the Unity location last week! We’re thrilled to have both of them as part of the Arkay family and can’t wait to see the great work they’ll do.

What’s Cookin’ at Java Junction

Spring’s in full swing at the café! We’ve debuted our newest treat—the Java Cristo—and switched the slushie machine back on. Stop by, sip something cool, grab a bite, and say hi—we’re meeting new customers every day!

Wrapping Up the Season

With warmer days ahead, let’s keep the energy going strong! Thank you all for your creativity, teamwork, and positive spirit that keep Arkay thriving. Here’s to even more good news, great ideas, and sunny days ahead!

Alics D. Dillard, MA LPC